Gabapentin oral solution

What is this medicine?

GABAPENTIN (GA ba pen tin) is used to control partial seizures in adults with epilepsy. It is also used to treat certain types of nerve pain.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Carefully measure the dose needed. Use a specially marked spoon or dropper to measure your medicine. Tell your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. If this medicine upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

worsening of mood, thoughts or actions of suicide or dying

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of reach of children.

This medicine may cause accidental overdose and death if it taken by other adults, children, or pets. Mix any unused medicine with a substance like cat litter or coffee grounds. Then throw the medicine away in a sealed container like a sealed bag or a coffee can with a lid. Do not use the medicine after the expiration date.

Store in the refrigerator, between 2 and 8 degrees C (36 and 46 degrees F). Do not freeze.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

kidney disease

suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt; a previous suicide attempt by you or a family member

an unusual or allergic reaction to gabapentin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You may want to keep a record at home of how you feel your condition is responding to treatment. You may want to share this information with your doctor or health care professional at each visit. You should contact your doctor or health care professional if your seizures get worse or if you have any new types of seizures. Do not stop taking this medicine or any of your seizure medicines unless instructed by your doctor or health care professional. Stopping your medicine suddenly can increase your seizures or their severity.

Wear a medical identification bracelet or chain if you are taking this medicine for seizures, and carry a card that lists all your medications.

You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water will help.

The use of this medicine may increase the chance of suicidal thoughts or actions. Pay special attention to how you are responding while on this medicine. Any worsening of mood, or thoughts of suicide or dying should be reported to your health care professional right away.

Women who become pregnant while using this medicine may enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334. This registry collects information about the safety of antiepileptic drug use during pregnancy.